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Drivers are expected to keep their attention on the road at all times while operating a vehicle, but unfortunately, not everyone adheres to this fundamental safety principle. Distracted driving is a significant issue, contributing to approximately 18% of all car accidents in North Carolina. This type of negligence not only endangers the driver but also poses serious risks to passengers, other road users, and pedestrians.
The rapid advancement of cellular technology has brought many benefits, but it has also introduced a significant hazard on the roads: distracted driving. The U.S. Department of Transportation highlights a stark reality: glancing at your phone for just a few seconds while driving at 55 mph is equal to traveling the length of a football field without seeing a thing. This brief moment of distraction can have devastating consequences.
In North Carolina, the impact of distracted driving is evident in the statistics. According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, in 2021, distracted driving was a factor in 17.9% of all crashes in the state, translating to 49,485 incidents. Among these, 20,722 individuals sustained injuries, and 165 lives were tragically lost.
To combat the dangers posed by distracted driving, North Carolina has established several important laws:
Restrictions for Drivers Under 18: Individuals under the age of 18 are prohibited from using cell phones while driving, except in emergencies. This regulation aims to reduce distractions for younger, less experienced drivers who may be more susceptible to the dangers of mobile device use.
Texting While Driving: Texting while driving is illegal for all drivers, regardless of age. This law addresses one of the most common and hazardous forms of distraction, as texting requires both visual and cognitive attention, diverting focus away from the road.
School Bus Drivers: Drivers of school buses are banned from using mobile devices for non-emergency purposes while operating their vehicles. This measure helps ensure the safety of children and minimizes distractions during crucial moments when students are boarding or disembarking.
Despite these regulations, it is important to recognize that North Carolina law still permits adult drivers to use their mobile devices for voice communication while driving. However, this does not mean that such activities are without risk. Any action that diverts a driver’s attention from the road—whether it involves using a phone, interacting with a navigation system, or engaging in other distractions—can significantly increase the likelihood of an accident.
Our dedicated distracted driving accident attorneys are committed to advocating for justice for those affected by such reckless behaviors. We understand the profound impact that distracted driving can have on victims and their families. If you have been injured or have lost a loved one due to a distracted driver, our team is here to help you navigate the legal process, seek the compensation you deserve, and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we are prepared to fight for your rights with the dedication and compassion you need.
As the victim of a car accident due to distracted driving, it is essential that you know your rights. These include:
As a victim of a car accident, you have the right to obtain immediate and ongoing medical treatment for any injuries sustained. This right ensures that you can seek prompt emergency care at the accident scene or in a hospital to address acute injuries and stabilize your condition. Additionally, it covers any required continued medical attention, such as follow-up visits with specialists, surgeries, and physical therapy, to support your recovery. The right to medical care also includes receiving necessary prescription medications and other treatments that aid in your healing process. Your health and well-being should be the top priority, and this right ensures that you can access the medical services required to recover.
You are entitled to seek compensation for various damages resulting from the accident. This includes reimbursement for medical costs, such as hospital bills, doctor’s fees, and rehabilitation expenses. If your injuries have caused you to miss work, you can claim damages for lost wages, which compensates for the income you lost during your recovery period. Additionally, you can seek compensation for pain and suffering, due to physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by the accident. Property damage compensation covers the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal belongings damaged in the crash. This right ensures that you are financially supported to cover the losses and hardships incurred due to the
You have the right to file a claim or lawsuit to seek justice and compensation for the damages you have suffered. This involves initiating a formal claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company or pursuing legal action in court if necessary. To navigate this process effectively, you have the right to hire an attorney who specializes in personal injury and distracted driving cases. This legal professional will provide expert guidance, advocate on your behalf, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal proceedings. Their role is to help you understand your legal options, build a strong case, and work toward securing a favorable outcome.
You are entitled to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company or the responsible party. This right allows you to review and discuss settlement offers to ensure they accurately reflect the extent of your damages and losses. If the initial offer is insufficient or does not cover your needs, you have the right to reject it and continue negotiating for a more equitable amount. This process may involve counteroffers, discussions, and potentially legal action if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Ensuring that you receive full and fair compensation for all your losses is crucial, and this right empowers you to advocate for yourself throughout the settlement process.
Throughout your case, you have the right to stay informed about its progress and receive clear legal advice. This includes being updated on developments, such as changes in the status of your claim, court dates, and settlement negotiations. Your attorney should provide transparent and comprehensible explanations about the legal process, your options, and potential outcomes. This right ensures that you are well informed and can make educated decisions regarding your case, allowing you to be actively involved in the pursuit of justice and compensation.
Your personal and medical information should be kept confidential and protected from unauthorized access. This right ensures that your sensitive details, such as medical records and personal data, are handled with the utmost care and shared only with your consent or as legally required. Maintaining privacy is crucial to prevent misuse of your information and to safeguard your dignity and security throughout the legal process.
You have the right to pursue legal action without fearing retaliation or adverse actions from the at-fault driver or their insurance company. This right protects you from any form of discrimination, harassment, or negative consequences that might arise as a result of seeking justice. It ensures that you can focus on your recovery and legal pursuits without facing undue pressure or repercussions from those responsible for the accident.
You are entitled to access and review evidence related to the accident. This includes crucial documents and materials such as police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage of the incident. Accessing this evidence is essential for building a strong case, as it provides insight into the circumstances of the accident, supports your claims, and helps establish fault and liability.
If you disagree with the outcome of your case, you have the right to challenge the decision. This involves appealing the verdict or settlement if you believe it does not fairly address your damages or if procedural errors occurred. The appeal process allows for a higher court to review the case, potentially overturning or modifying the initial ruling to ensure a just outcome. This right provides an additional layer of protection to seek a fair resolution if the initial outcome is unsatisfactory.
Following the accident, you have the right to seek emotional and psychological support. This includes counseling and therapy to address any trauma, stress, or mental health issues resulting from the incident. Professional support can be vital in helping you cope with the emotional impact of the accident, aiding in your overall recovery, and improving your quality of life. This right acknowledges the significant emotional toll accidents can have and ensures that you have access to necessary mental health resources.
The repercussions of a distracted driving accident can be severe and far-reaching. Injuries may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. The physical, emotional, and financial toll on the victim can be overwhelming, often extending to family members who must cope with the changes and challenges brought about by the accident.
The effects of such accidents are not always immediately apparent. Injuries may have long-lasting consequences, including chronic pain, permanent disabilities, or psychological trauma. The disruption to your life, work, and daily activities can be profound and enduring.
The aftermath of a distracted driving accident often affects not just the victim but also their family and friends. The emotional strain, financial burden, and logistical challenges of supporting a loved one through recovery can be significant. Your legal team will consider these broader impacts when pursuing compensation, aiming to address both the immediate and long-term needs of your family.
While cell phone use and texting are well-known causes of distracted driving accidents, they are far from the only behaviors that can lead to dangerous driving situations. Distracted driving includes a variety of activities that divert attention away from the road and can impair a driver's ability to focus on driving safely. Here are several other common distractions:
Changing the Radio Station: Adjusting the music or switching between different media sources can take a driver's attention away from the road. This can involve physically reaching for controls or becoming mentally preoccupied with selecting a song or playlist.
Eating and Drinking: Consuming food or beverages while driving can be particularly distracting. It often requires the driver to use one or both hands for handling items, which can reduce their ability to control the vehicle effectively and lead to spills that cause further distraction.
Grooming: Engaging in grooming activities, such as applying makeup, combing hair, or shaving, can be highly distracting. These actions typically require the driver to take their eyes off the road and their hands off the steering wheel.
Reading: Reading materials, such as maps, road signs, or even printed documents, can divert attention from driving. Focusing on written text requires visual and cognitive functions that are crucial for safe driving.
Talking to Passengers and Turning Your Head: Conversations with passengers, especially when combined with turning one's head to face them, can divert attention from driving. Engaging in lively discussions or arguments can also be mentally distracting.
Using a Navigation System: While modern GPS systems like Apple CarPlay are intended to assist with navigation, interacting with them—whether entering addresses, adjusting settings, or following directions—can divert attention from the road. This includes both in-car navigation screens and portable devices.
Watching a Video: Whether it's watching a video on a mobile device or using an in-car entertainment system, visual media can significantly detract from the driver’s attention. This type of distraction engages visual and auditory senses that are essential for safe driving.
Each of these activities represents a potential risk to safe driving, as they impair a driver's ability to stay focused on the road and respond quickly to changing conditions. Drivers must remain attentive and minimize distractions to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.
If you or a loved one has sustained serious injuries in an accident caused by a distracted driver, it is crucial to seek the assistance of experienced distracted driving accident lawyers. These legal professionals are equipped to protect your rights and guide you through the complex process of seeking justice and compensation.
A qualified accident lawyer will provide more than just legal representation. They offer comprehensive support, including assistance with medical bills, dealing with insurance companies, and managing legal paperwork. Their goal is to alleviate the stress of navigating the legal system so you can focus on recovery.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured due to a distracted driver, consult with experienced distracted driving accident lawyers. Their in-depth legal experience will help you navigate the complexities of your case, secure necessary compensation, and address the profound impact the accident has had on your life and your family's well-being. Their dedicated support is crucial in achieving justice and facilitating the recovery process.
When you choose Daggett Shuler for legal representation following a car accident caused by distracted driving, you can rest assured that with our proven track record of success in handling personal injury claims, Daggett Shuler brings extensive experience to the table. Our team is well-versed in the complexities of distracted driving cases, understanding the nuances of proving negligence and securing the maximum compensation for their clients. By leveraging our deep knowledge of relevant laws and their strategic approach, we work tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of your case is thoroughly addressed.
At Daggett Shuler, we’re trusted by our neighbors of the Triad community for our compassionate and client-focused approach. We recognize the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a car accident can take on you and your family. This empathy drives our commitment to providing personalized attention and support throughout the legal process. From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, our attorneys prioritize clear communication and transparency, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way. Choosing Daggett Shuler means partnering with a firm dedicated to achieving justice while getting you the care and compensation you deserve.
Our attorneys have helped clients with legal support through workers’ compensation, Social Security Disability, personal injury, car accident claims, and more. Our clients know that we stand beside them when they are going through a difficult time. Read reviews from real clients, and if you had a positive experience with Daggett Shuler Law, please consider leaving a review.
Contact the attorneys at Daggett Shuler today for a free, no-obligation consultation. You can depend on us.
